Category: ENTERTAINMENT

Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Bollywood’s “Khiladi” star Akshay Kumar sought the opinion of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis about taking on a negative role in his upcoming film Haiwaan.

“I am doing a film where I play a negative character. I was wondering whether I should do it or not. The film is called Haiwaan, but in the end, I lose. The ‘Haiwaan’ loses,” Akshay said at the FICCI FRAMES 2025 event to the political leader.

To this, Fadnavis replied by saying: “Yes, you should definitely do it. A versatile actor like you should explore all kinds of roles.”

Fadnavis stressed that, for an actor, true accomplishment means branching out into different roles.

He added: “Ultimately, what is an accomplishment? Even in films where the villain loses, the character often leaves a bigger impact than the hero. That is creativity. But do continue doing more films as a hero as well.”

Explaining why he took a negative character, Akshay said: “I felt like doing a negative role hence I am doing it. Mostly I play the hero in the film.”

Talking about “Haiwaan”, the film reunites Akshay with actor Saif Ali Khan after 17 years. Directed by Priyadarshan, the film serves as a remake of the 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam, which was also helmed by the same filmmaker and starred Mohanlal. The cast of the upcoming film also includes Boman Irani and Shriya Pilgaonkar, with Rohan Shankar as the screenwriter.

Meanwhile, will also be seen in Priyadarshan’s horror comedy ‘Bhoot Bangla’. The horror drama is likely to release towards the end of 2025.

The film brings the iconic trio of Priyadarshan, Akshay and Paresh Rawal, back. Aside from Akshay and Paresh, the project will also see Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Mithila Palkar, and Wamiqa Gabbi in crucial roles, along with others.

The Priyadarshan’s directorial has been produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms in collaboration with Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films. The film is co-produced by Faara Sheikh and Vedant Baali.

The story of the movie has been written by Akash A Kaushik and the screenplay by Rohan Shankar, Abilash Nair, and Priyadarshan. The dialogues have been penned by Rohan Shankar.

“Bhooth Bangla” is slated for a theatrical release on April 2, 2026.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 6 (IANS) Actress Ashnoor Kaur’s parents, Avneet Kaur and Gurmeet Singh, have broken their silence on their daughter’s journey in the Bigg Boss 19 house.

Their reaction comes after a recent spat in which contestant Farhana Bhatt questioned Ashnoor’s upbringing, leaving the young actress visibly upset and disturbed. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Ashnoor’s parents shared their thoughts on how she has been handling the pressure inside the house.

When IANS asked if they felt Ashnoor had managed the situation with Farhana Bhatt, her mother, Avneet, said, “She responded with calmness and dignity. Whenever Farhana says something, Ashnoor replies in composure and respect, staying true to her values.”

On the difficulty of watching their daughter in such a pressured environment, her father Gurmeet added, ‘It’s very difficult watching someone scold your child or seeing tears in their eyes. You just want to step in and protect them. Unfortunately, we can’t do that here. All we can do is send her strength and positivity from outside, hoping she remains strong and continues to do well. Speaking about her proudest moments so far, Avneet reflected, “There have been many in just six weeks. I have been with her for 15 years, guiding her through every decision. But in her house, the way she answers, maintains her grace and upholds her values makes us very proud. The way she speaks respectfully to everyone, especially elders like Kunickaa Sadanand, shows the thrill we have given her. Every time she speaks, it makes us proud.”

Further upon talking about Ashnoor’s ugly fight with Ashnoor, where the latter was seen very disturbed, mother Avneet said, “Honestly, I didn’t like it at all. It hurt me and disturbed me deeply. At one point, I even thought of pulling her out of the show because people do not understand her personality. She won’t scream or abuse. That’s not who she is. She often tells people when they are crossing limits, but in a calm way. She wasn’t being arrogant. Maybe certain clips created a misunderstanding. But as the show progresses, people will see her real nature, and their opinion will surely change.”

Ashnoor Kaur has been receiving mixed reactions for her game show in The Bigg Boss Season 19. Her friendship with co-contestant Abhishek Bajaj has been the talk of the town, both inside and outside of the house. While contestants like Nehal Chudasma, Baseer Ali, and Farrhana Bhatt, amongst others, are trying to link both of them romantically, both Ashnoor and Abhishek have always sternly maintained that they are only good friends and nothing beyond that. –

-IANS

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Chennai, Oct 7 (IANS) National Award winning music director G V Prakash has expressed confidence that ‘Kannu Muzhi’, the just released first single from the Kavin-starrer ‘Mask’, will emerge a chartbuster and has said that he will disclose how special the number is once it becomes a “blockbuster”.

G V Prakash made these statements in reply to actor Kavin, who thanked him for the foot tapping number.

Soon after the song released, Kavin took to his X timeline to thank G V Prakash, the music director of the film.

Kavin said, “Manasu rekka molachu parakkudhu yaathae 🙂 Thanks for this bro @gvprakash (My heart has grown wings and is now in flight! Thanks for this bro.)”

To this, G V Prakash responded saying, “You are welcome Kavin. You know how special this song is? Will reveal it later when it’s a blockbuster!”

The peppy, romantic number has been set to tune by G V Prakash and has been rendered by Anthony Daasan and Sublahshini.

For the unaware, Andrea is turning producer with director Vikarnan Ashok’s upcoming Tamil film, ‘Mask’, featuring actor Kavin in the lead.

Interestingly, this film will have Andrea, not just producing it, but also reportedly playing the antagonist in it.

This is not the first time that Andrea is playing the antagonist in a film. She was seen playing such a role in director Vetri Maran’s Vada Chennai.

Sources close to the unit of the film say that Kavin, for the first time in his career, will be seen in an explosive action entertainer.

One other interesting aspect about the posters released is that all of them have the phrase ‘Vaathiyaaraga Vetri Maran’, giving rise to speculation that director Vetrimaran plays a Vaathiyaar (Teacher) in the film. However, the first single has put to rest such speculation, making it clear that Vetrimaaran has been playing the role of a mentor to the unit with regard to this project.

The film, which has triggered huge interest among film buffs and fans, has music by National Award winning music director G V Prakash and cinematography by one of the best in the business R D Rajashekar.

Editing for the film, which is now in its final stages of shooting, is by Ramar and art direction is by Jacki and Vijay Iyyappan.

The film, which is jointly produced by Andrea and S P Chockalingam, is to be presented by director Vetri Maran’s Grassroot Film Company.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Legendary singer Asha Bhosle had once opened up about her childhood fascination with films and music, revealing how imitating singers at home helped shape her unique style.

From experimenting with different voices to drawing inspiration from the English singer Carmen Miranda, she shared how these early experiences played a key role in her iconic singing career. In an old interview with Waves OTT, Asha talked about how as a child, she enjoyed watching films and listening to songs, then imitating the singers she admired. This was a common habit in her household, but for her, it became a kind of training ground.

She specifically mentioned Carmen Miranda, a flamboyant Portuguese-Brazilian singer known for her high-energy performances and fruit-laden hats. Asha tried to imitate her style, even though her family were classical musicians. The singer said, “Since childhood, I had a habit of watching films, listening to songs, and imitating them. I tried to imitate the voice of a singer. Everyone had this habit at home, including me. Let me tell you about an English singer named Carmen Miranda. She used to wear strange clothes, and there were fruits on her cap. My family is a classical singer, but when I used to sing this song at home, my mother used to think that I was imitating a ghost.”

“My mother used to beat me. Let me tell you about that song. I will also tell you how it helped me later. I used to sing this song at home. Many years later, I got the opportunity to sing Sir Ramchandraji’s song. No matter how much I sang, they didn’t like it.”

Asha Bhosle added, “So, I thought of that woman. I sang it during the take and everyone loved it. They asked me, how did you do this? I didn’t tell them that I imitated Carmen Miranda. In the same way, I changed my singing every time. I changed my voice and style. There was a time when I used to sing Qawwali. I used to sing this song a lot. I used to sing this song a lot. Then, this song came along with it.”

Celebrated for her remarkable versatility, Asha Bhosle is considered among the greatest voices in Hindi cinema. Across a career of over eight decades, she has lent her voice to films and albums in various Indian languages and has been honoured with multiple awards, including two National Film Awards.

Bhosle will be turning 92 on September 8, 2025.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Punjabi music sensation Karan Aujla has announced a new world tour in support of his groundbreaking third studio album ‘P-pop culture’ and said that it will be a celebration of the genre’s rich heritage and global appeal.

Aujla will kick off his world tour with his previously announced performance in Abu Dhabi on November 29, before traveling to the US, Europe, Asia, Canada, and UK throughout 2026.

Karan said in a statement “P-POP CULTURE represents not just a collection of songs but a cultural revolution, an invitation for the world to experience the vibrancy of Punjabi music and culture.”

P-pop stands for Punjabi pop and Aujla promises the tour will be fueled with “love and nostalgia”.

“This tour will be a celebration of the genre’s rich heritage and its global appeal within the global pop culture landscape. Fuelled by love and nostalgia, we’re building a movement around this sound and there’s no better way to kick it off than from a place I call home and the cosmopolitan hub of the world,” Aujla added.

Aujla’s latest album, P-Pop Culture, released on August 22. It is in collaboration with Canadian producer Ikky, where the “Tauba Tauba” hitmaker introduced a fusion of Punjabi pop with global pop elements, coining the term “P-Pop” to describe this unique blend.

The upcoming Abu Dhabi concert promises a crafted experience, featuring cutting-edge visual technology and immersive soundscapes. The setlist comprises his recent chartbusters from his 11-track album such as ‘P Pop Culture’, ‘I Really Do…’, ‘MF Gabhru!’, ‘For A Reason’ alongside his all-time classics.

Mohit Bijlani, Founder, Team Innovation said: “The rebranding of the Abu Dhabi leg of the world tour signifies not only a new chapter for Karan Aujla but also an elevated experience for his fans in the UAE.”

“We will deliver a meticulously crafted experience with groundbreaking visual technology, enhanced stage theatrics and state-of-the-art production, bringing his exhilarating new show format to life.”

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Anil Kapoor’s wife Sunita Kapoor expressed her heartfelt emotions on social media as she opened up about the beautiful bond between her daughter Rhea Kapoor and son-in-law Karan Boolani.

Sharing her joy, Sunita said her heart fills with happiness seeing the love and care Karan showers on Rhea. On Tuesday, the star wife took to her Instagram handle and shared photos of the couple alongside a heartfelt note. Sunita wrote, “Happiest bday karan .. so blessed to have you as a son.. seeing how much you love and care for rhea and the love and care you show every member of the family fills my heart with joy! May you always be blessed with the best , love you beta @karanboolani.”

In the first solo image, Karan is seen lying while looking at the camera. The next click shows Karan and Rhea, dressed in stylish black outfits, posing together. On September 6, Karan Boolani turned a year older and received heartwarming birthday wishes from his father-in-law Anil Kapoor, sister-in-law Sonam Kapoor, and wife Rhea Kapoor.

The ‘Mr. India’ actor expressed his admiration for Karan in a heartfelt note, highlighting how he consistently raises the bar through his dedication and positive influence. Anil Kapoor shared the message along with two photos on his Instagram account. He wrote, “Happy Birthday, @karanboolani! Every year, you raise the bar, not just in your work, but in the way you live, create, and inspire those around you. your passion and your energy is contagious. It’s been incredible watching you evolve into the person you are today. You and Rhea make such a powerful team, grounded, creative, and unstoppable. Here’s to more adventures, bigger dreams, and stories that leave a mark. Have an amazing year ahead, Son!.”

Sonam Kapoor also posted a heartfelt birthday message for her brother-in-law, Karan Boolani, giving a rare glimpse of her son Vayu with his beloved uncle. She captioned the image, “Happy happy Birthday to Vayu’s favourite storyteller, friend and funnest uncle. Karan Boolani, we love you.”

–IANS

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Los Angeles, Oct 7 (IANS) Hollywood actor-director Ben Affleck and singer-actress Jennifer Lopez may have parted ways but the respect that they hold for each other is truly inspiring.

Affleck continues to support JLo’s professional endeavors. JLo, 56, stars in the upcoming musical, ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’, and appeared at the New York City premiere of the film, reports ‘People’ magazine.

Along with JLo, the film’s executive producer, Affleck, made a surprise appearance at the N.Y.C. event. Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artist Equity production company co-produced the movie. At the premiere, the former couple posed together in celebration of the production.

As per ‘People’, a few photos captured the two A-listers chatting with each other on the carpet. Affleck, 53, also spoke to the press about the film. For the occasion, JLo wore a sculptural gown from Harris Reed’s spring 2026 collection.

Ahead of the screening, JLo introduced the film and thanked her ex-husband, saying, “Thank you so much, thank you everybody for being here tonight. Thank you, Ben, this movie wouldn’t have been made without Ben and without Artist Equity”.

“I read the script, if you know, I was in bed and I was just floored”, she continued. “I was just like, could this be happening right now. I get to sing, I get to dance, I get to act. I get to be an old-time Hollywood movie star”.

Affleck’s supportive appearance follows their 2025 divorce. The former couple initially met in 2002 and began dating. After ending their engagement in 2004, they both pursued other relationships and started families of their own. Then in 2021, they rekindled their romance and they married in an intimate Las Vegas ceremony in July 2022.

The next month, they celebrated their nuptials with a second ceremony in Georgia in front of friends and family. In 2024 they split, citing irreconcilable differences. They settled their divorce in February.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) As his brother Bobby Deol clocked thirty years in Hindi cinema, his superstar brother Sunny Deol celebrated ‘Lord Bob’.

Sunny took to Instagram, where he shared a video montage featuring Bobby’s maiden Hindi film “Barsaat”, which released in 1995. The clip also featured some of the songs picturised on Bobby and actress Twinkle Khanna from the film.

“Lord Bob 30 Years,” Sunny captioned the video.

Bobby took to the comment section and replied to Sunny with a few heart emojis.

Sunny’s “Gadar” co-star Ameesha Patel wrote: “The OG stallion. Congrats n 30 years more to come (sic).”

Barsaat was directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. It followed the story of Badal, a naive village boy, and Tina, a wealthy city girl, who fall in love at college. Their romance is challenged by Tina’s greedy stepfather, Dinesh Oberoi, who schemes to take her inheritance.

After Barsaat, Bobby was seen in films such as “Gupt: The Hidden Truth”, “Kareeb”, “Soldier”, “Badal”, “Hum To Mohabbat Karega”, “Bichhoo”, “Ajnabee”, “Humraaz” and “Jhoom Barabar Jhoom” to name a few. This was followed by a career downturn.

However, he did taste a bit of success with his work in Apne, Yamla Pagla Deewana and Housefull 4.

But it was recently, when he made a roaring comeback with Class of ’83, Aashram, Animal, Love Hostel and The Ba***ds of Bollywood.

The actor on October 6 celebrated his three decade long journey on social media and said that he is just getting started.

Bobby, who is the son of veteran actor Dharmendra, wrote: “30 years of many emotions on and off screen … all made worthwhile by your love. That fire still burns and I’m just getting started!”

Looking forward, he has a slew of releases such as the Alia Bhatt-starrer “Alpha”. It also stars Sharvari. Directed by Shiv Rawail, “Alpha” is set to hit theatres during the big Christmas holiday weekend in 2025.

The film marks the seventh installment in Yash Raj Films’ growing spy universe, which began with the “Tiger” series starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif.

He also has the political action thriller film Jana Nayagan starring Vijay, Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol in the lead roles, alongside Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Narain and Priyamani.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Singer Adnan Sami took to social media to pen a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Begum Naureen Sami Khan, on her first death anniversary.

Reflecting on her lasting presence in his life, he shared how deeply her absence is felt and prayed for her eternal peace and reunion with his father. On Tuesday, Adnan shared a couple of throwback photos of his late mother and penned an emotional note. The singer wrote, “Today marks a year since my beloved Mother, Begum Naureen Sami Khan passed away & left us. It’s surreal to put into words the void her absence has left. Yet, in the silence, her memory echoes louder than ever. Wherever she maybe, I pray for her peace and happiness. I hope she found Baba whom she missed eternally ever since he left us in 2009. I pray that they are smiling together.”

“I constantly cherish the beautiful memories we shared. Ami’s life was a testament to love, beauty, strength, patience and forgiveness. Though she’s no longer here, her spirit lives on in our hearts, guiding us through life’s joys and sorrows. Her many anecdotes bring smiles to us all when we share them together.”

Adnan Sami added, “In moments of joy, I sometimes ache within for not being able to share those moments with her. Yet, in that grief, I find solace knowing that her love for us remains unwavering. I’ll carry her memory with me always, in every breath, in every heartbeat. “Ami, I love you more than words can express. May your soul rest in eternal peace, and may your memory continue to inspire us to live fully and love deeply.” Missing you more than ever, Adnan #adnansami.”

Adnan Sami’s mother, Begum Naureen Sami Khan, passed away on October 7, 2024, at the age of 77. The singer took to social media to express his deep grief and offered prayers for her departed soul in a heartfelt post. However, he chose not to disclose the cause of her death.

Adnan had written, “It’s with the greatest sadness & infinite sorrow that I announce the demise of our beloved Mother, Begum Naureen Sami Khan. We are overtaken by profound grief. She was an incredible lady who shared love & joy with everyone she touched. We will miss her immensely. Kindly say a prayer for her departed soul. May Allah SWT bless our dearest Mother in Jannat-ul-Firdaus… Ameen…”

–IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Filmmaker Milap Zaveri recently opened up about Mohit Suri’s directorial “Saiyaara,” calling it his best work to date.

In his latest post on Instagram, Zaveri shared his thoughts on what makes the film stand out in Suri’s impressive filmography. Sharing a poster of the film, he wrote a heartfelt note saying he wanted to kick himself for missing it in cinemas. The ‘Marjaavaan’ director wrote, “Finally saw the film of the year #Saiyaara and want to kick myself for missing it in cinemas! There is nothing left to say about its brilliance that the entire world hasn’t said already. But I’ll still try! @mohitsuri you have crafted pure Love!.”

Milap added, “This is your best film not because it has made the most money but coz it’s the purest film that you have made from your heart. @ahaanpandayy you were born to be a star. And thus you now are! Your performance rips the heart apart and then mends it! Your eyes speak volumes be it love, pain, rage or dreams! What a fucking performance! @aneetpadda_ You define the word vulnerable, talent, beauty, and innocence!.”

“To pull off such a complicated role with such effortless ease so early in your career is unbelievable! @awidhani @sumanaghoshs @yrf take a bow for giving @mohitsuri the freedom to make HIS film the way HE wanted to! This is a masterpiece and he is surely a master! Huge congratulations to the entire team!!!.”

‘Saiyaara’ starred debutant Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in lead roles. Released on July 18, the film went on to become the second highest-grossing Hindi film of 2025 and the top-grossing Indian romantic film of the year. Backed by Yash Raj Films, the movie draws loose inspiration from the 2004 Korean classic “A Moment to Remember.”

–IANS

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